LDSB Educators' Day
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board celebrates LDSB Educators' Day, Saturday, October 5, 2024. Trustees and senior staff wish to acknowledge the incredible efforts of all Limestone staff and their contributions to help our students succeed. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A heartfelt thank you to Limestone staff—educators, central and support staff, office teams, professional personnel, caretakers, facilities, and administrators—who all contribute to student achievement and sense of belonging. While UNESCO proclaimed World Teachers' Day in 1994, we honor the contributions of all staff shaping our students' future. </span></p>
2024-10-04 19:17:10.228 +0000 UTC
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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day is held annually on Monday, September 30. This is a day to intentionally continue learning about the Residential School System and the truthful history of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. This is a day to mourn the lives of the children who never came home and honour the Survivors, as well as their families and communities. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This day is part of a larger conversation of colonization and systemic inequities, and the recognition of Indigenous resiliency and resistance to colonial tactics should be included as part of this learning. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What can you do? </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wear orange on September 30, read books written by Indigenous authors that acknowledge the residential school experience, read books that celebrate Indigenous beauty and brilliance, volunteer with Indigenous organizations and not-for-profits, support Indigenous artists, watch Indigenous films and documentaries, and attend Indigenous events that are open to the public in your community. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All LDSB schools, education centres and sites will lower both the Canadian, Every Child Matters, or Survivor flags to half-mast from sunrise to sunset on Monday, September 30, 2024 in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Public commemoration and continuous learning about the ongoing impacts of residential schools are vital actions that we must all take to live in right relations with each other on Indigenous lands. Please refrain from taking and sharing pictures of yourself or others smiling in your orange shirts. You are invited to take pictures of the ways that you are honouring this day within your classrooms or school communities. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We understand that some students, staff, and families may wish to have additional support throughout this week. If you require immediate emotional assistance, you can call the support lines shared below: </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to Survivors and those affected by the Residential School System at 1-866-925-4419. </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Individuals impacted by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, Transgender, and gender diverse people’s crisis are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649. </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at </span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hopeforwellness.ca%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7C6e6935ea693545d8f7db08dcde3a0b7f%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638629588075796503%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=STYsNbeW6qjd6EKft%2FNXIGK7tKBaUzikIVxLtWaHuGY%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">hopeforwellness.ca</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p>
2024-09-30 16:22:42 +0000 UTC
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Message from the Director - September 26, 2024
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families, </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we are almost reaching the one-month mark of this school year, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and engagement. While September weather has been very summer-like, it has been a pleasure to see Limestone students settle into their routines for the 2024-2025 school year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I have a couple of updates for you, and invite you to watch a </span><a href="https://bit.ly/DirectorsMsgToFamiliesSept2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Message from the Director video</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> which summarizes this communication: </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Multi-Year Strategic Plan Update</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a board, we will continue to act upon our new Multi-Year Strategic Plan and our intention of making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school. Our staff is committed to doing the work necessary to improve student well-being and sense of belonging, literacy and math learning, graduation rates and preparedness for future success, and responsiveness and service to students, families, staff, and community partners. We will continue to share more updates with you in the coming weeks about how we are putting our Strategic Plan into action. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Profile Data Now Available on School Websites Across Limestone</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone is pleased to announce that school profile data is now available on our district’s school websites. This information provides us with data and trends that assist with enrolment projections, boundary planning, and school catchment areas. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This initiative is driven by our commitment to transparency and our desire to keep our community well-informed about the educational environment within our schools. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sharing school profile data with the greater community is essential for several reasons, including providing transparency for community members to see the school’s profile data, empowering families to make informed decisions about their student’s education, and supporting community engagement. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are pleased to provide school profile data for our schools and look forward to working together with our community to continuously improve our learning environments. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Profile Data can be found on all LDSB school websites under “Our School” in the main navigation menu. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cell Phones and Vaping</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">One item receiving considerable attention as we start this school year is the new </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/kfl-a-public-health-and-limestone-district-school-board-supporting-the-implementation-of-ppm-128-20240904190018" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">provincial policy</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> on cell phones and vaping. This was outlined in my first family message at the start of the school year. In Limestone, vaping has never been permitted on school property. In addition, cell phones have only been permissible during class time with the educator’s permission. </span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What is clear is more education about the dangers of vaping and overuse of cell phones and social media is necessary for the benefit of all children and youth. More and more evidence is emerging linking poorer health outcomes associated with increased use of cell phones and social media. </span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We will be working closely with public health to increase education on the harms of vaping, and excessive cell phone and social media use during this school year. It is important for students, families, and staff to understand the health concerns related to both behaviours. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Attendance Matters </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular school attendance is crucial for a student’s academic success and overall development, as it is directly related to personal growth and future opportunities. It helps build a strong foundation of knowledge, encourages a sense of responsibility, and establishes a consistent routine. Additionally, consistent attendance allows teachers to better support each student’s individual needs, leading to improved academic performance and a more cohesive classroom environment. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage all families to make school attendance a priority for their students by: </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Talking with your student(s) about the importance of daily attendance in a positive way and how it supports learning. </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Only letting your student stay home if they are unwell. </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Where possible, trying to schedule doctor, dentist, and other appointments after school hours. If your student must be out of school for an appointment during the school day, trying to minimize their absence by having them attend for at least part of the school day. </span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We fully recognize and acknowledge that not all children/youth are the same, and some students have important needs that may prevent consistent, regular attendance. In these cases, it is important for families to work with the school to make sure the student is best supported. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We know school makes a difference and matters for students. Together, let us make school attendance a priority to the maximum extent possible, and make every school day count. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All the very best, </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director of Education </span></p>
2024-09-26 20:40:00.773 +0000 UTC
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Boardroom Briefs September 18, 2024
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the September 18, 2024, Committee of the Whole Board Meeting. Board Meeting Agendas can be found on the website under </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 20px;"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land.” </em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Chair's Report</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><figure><img src="/images/dea058a1-e5d6-46f9-a75e-2526a81dc7b3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" alt="A photo of Chair Robin Hutcheon " width="333.5971374511719" height="432.2246070958264" style="float:right;width:333.5971374511719px;height:432.2246070958264px"><figurecaption>Image of Robin Hutcheon, Chair of the Board</figurecaption></figure><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I would like to draw your attention to the Survivor flag which will be flying for the month of September at the Education Centre as an expression of remembrance and to honour residential school Survivors and all the lives and communities who continue to be impacted by the Residential School System in what is now known as Canada. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I first learned of residential schools in my early twenties in a college course in Vancouver – First Nations studies, taught partially by a survivor. One of the most meaningful lessons was that residential schools were still going in my lifetime. I was born in 1977 which means, if I have my dates right, that I was 19 when the last one closed in Canada. I learned to drive, graduated high school and went to university, and residential schools still existed; and that is a reminder of privilege and that generational wealth doesn’t always mean millionaires – it can also mean family ties and stability and believing that you will never be homeless or starving. </span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"I encourage everyone, including myself, to learn more about the history of residential schools and to engage in meaningful discussions about the effects of residential schools, the ongoing impact, and the legacy they have left behind." Chair Hutcheon </span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board has a commitment to both teaching and learning the truth and taking strides towards meaningful action that reflects reconciliation and right relations with the Indigenous community in Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox and Addington. We are committed to creating opportunities for our school community to connect and engage in important conversations about education and the profound impact it has on future generations. And may we all strive to never repeat. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we begin a new school year, I want to highlight for our school communities that Board meetings are open to the public and may be attended in-person here at the Education Centre at 220 Portsmouth Avenue, in Kingston. For those who prefer to stay connected from home, we continue to live stream our regular monthly Board and committee meetings, and further to that, we will now be uploading recordings of these meetings to the Limestone District School Board’s YouTube channel with links on our website. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In closing, I would like to thank Trustee Lloyd and Superintendent Silver for attending the celebrations this week recognizing the partnership between Limestone’s Community Education and Lennox and Addington County, on the opening of the Personal Support Worker Living Classroom at the John M. Parrott Centre in Napanee. The program is a combination of theory, lab and clinical skills, and placement experiences in community and long-term care. The first cohort of students have already begun their classes and are thrilled to be a part of the Living Classroom program which is funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Centres for Learning. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director's Report</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><figure><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="368.6259765625" height="368.6259765625" style="float:right;width:368.6259765625px;height:368.6259765625px"><figurecaption>Image of Krishna Burra, Director of Education</figurecaption></figure><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I am very pleased to report that Limestone has had a very positive start to the 2024-2025 school year. While there is always room for improvement, it is amazing to see everything come together with over 20,500 students and almost 3,000 staff starting the school year in 60 Limestone sites and virtual school. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Preliminary enrolment numbers are showing growth within the Limestone community with an increase in both elementary and secondary students. Today was Day 12 of the 2024-2025 school year for students, and it has been wonderful to have students back in schools and to see various activities like sports, clubs, field trips, and great learning already underway helping to support the overall Limestone student experience. We must all recognize and have great gratitude for the time and efforts of staff and community members to make all of these extracurricular activities a reality for students. Fall sports, clubs, and activities have started across the district, parent councils are kicking off their school years, and students are involved in a range of activities like the several hundred LDSB students that attended the Fall Fair last week in Kingston or the range of Terry Fox fundraising activities that will come in the next couple of weeks. Next week, I will be starting my visits to schools, and I greatly look forward to seeing, hearing, and feeling the energy and excitement of learning and fun in schools.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustees may have noticed the Orange Survivors’ Flag flying on the second flagpole at the Education Centre. Schools with a second flagpole are doing the same, and schools without a flagpole, the Orange flag is prominently on display in the school. Looking ahead to next 12 days, a wide range of activities will be taking place in schools and the community to honour Orange Shirt Day, and the fourth annual National Truth and Reconciliation Day on Monday, September 30. This is a critical date to recognize the harm and trauma of the Residential Schools system, to honour the survivors and their families, and continue our collective learning and journey of reconciliation. Schools continue to have a critical role in supporting this journey and ensuring the truth is known about Residential Schools and their legacy in Canada. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In the next couple of weeks, we will be kicking off the annual United Way of KFL&A campaign in Limestone. I invite all Trustees to join this effort. As an incentive to Limestone employees, I will again be contributing $1 for every staff member who provides a one-time, or regular, payroll deduction to support the campaign. No amount is too little, and every dollar matters in supporting some of the most vulnerable children, youth, and families in the communities we serve. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I would also like to bring to Trustees’ attention to the professional learning focus we continue to pursue in Limestone for the 2024-2025 school year. We must continue to hone our craft to best serve students. While this work will not be completed this year, I think it is critical to highlight its importance in ensuring schools are making a difference for all students today, and into their futures. We need all Limestone students to find purpose in school, to find value in school, and to find hope in school. We know this is not the case for all students. While we do have to track, monitor, and report on the 11 indicators in the provincial Student Achievement Plan, we must continue to centre those students who are currently underserved, and not currently finding success. As a result, our system focus this year for professional learning, continues to centre our attention on students, and continuing the work we started two years ago focused on three inquiry questions: First, for whom is the current education system not working and why? Second, how do I/we know? And third, what can I/we try to do differently to make a difference? It is only through improving outcomes at the individual student level will we see macro-level improvement on the province’s three core priorities and Student Achievement Plan, and the Limestone Strategic Plan. I should note that 2023-2024 EQAO results should become public in the next couple of weeks. </span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"As educators and as a system, we have a critical responsibility in supporting children and youth in the communities we serve. Our overall purpose is well placed by emphasizing our intention to make a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school; and to make sure everyone sees themselves in Limestone." Director Burra </span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">And finally, as just a few examples of the important professional learning for educators to support their critical work, we have provided learning for grade 9/10 technology teachers as we roll-out new resources supported by the Limestone Learning Foundation, and we have been facilitating learning for Intensive Support Teachers and Student Support Teachers to support our new elementary special education service delivery model. All educators want to make a difference in the lives and destinies of children and youth. Our continued journey of inquiry and our united, stated intention will focus our collective efforts. I look forward to more discussion and updates regarding our progress in the coming days, weeks, months, and years.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Facility Services Presentation</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Summer 2024 Projects Update</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><figure><img src="/images/b2ab1686-cb7a-4046-bfe6-19217a98b839?fingerprint=ppb20251217014650" alt="Image of slide with statistics of facilities work completed over the summer of 2024" width="453.6007385253906" height="255.1430686094028" style="float:right;width:453.6007385253906px;height:255.1430686094028px"><figurecaption>Image description: graphic with white background and blue text</figurecaption></figure><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Facility Services Manager Dave Fowler and Assistant Manager Charlyn Downie provided Trustees with an overview of the School Condition and Renewal Funding projects and Capital work undertaken over the summer. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This summer, LDSB Facility Services managed $218.3M in school condition and renewal funding, completing 273 projects, conducting capital work at 53 schools, and adding eight new portables. Below are some highlights from the presentation.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To ensure the safety of students and staff, many projects addressed building components requiring upgrades to meet current and revised codes and regulations. These codes and regulations include CSA standards for playground structures and surfacing, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (covering boilers, fuel oil, elevators, and lifts), National Fire Prevention standards, municipal by-laws, and guidelines from the Ministry of Environment and Conservation, to name a few.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Assistant Manager Downie provided details and photos of some of the larger capital projects, funded through the Building Envelope program, which involve the maintenance of systems that protect the exterior of a building. This includes all systems that keep schools weather-tight, such as roofs, windows, cladding, and doors. Almost every year, there is a selection of projects of this type. Projects may involve a single system, like roofing, or could be more complex, combining several building envelope elements into one project. One example highlighted by Downie was the Lord Strathcona P.S. Building Envelope Phase IV project.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 449px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lord Strathcona P.S. Building Envelope Improvements</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Naturalized Kindergarten Area at Lord Strathcona P.S.</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 449px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><figure><img src="/images/4c9834ef-caef-4967-9169-8dc37d13f88c?fingerprint=ppb20251217013727" alt="Image of Lord Strathcona playground area and rooftop." width="450.7464294433594" height="250.71228999459248" style="width:450.7464294433594px;height:250.71228999459248px"><figurecaption>Aerial image of Lord Strathcona P.S. naturalized yard, new roof and masonry.</figurecaption></figure></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><figure><img src="/images/296ce260-2bd5-455c-b9c1-a1e4a60369b5?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" alt="Image of Lord Strathcona's Naturalized Kindergarten Yard" width="316.7284240722656" height="256.22092663245036" style="width:316.7284240722656px;height:256.22092663245036px"><figurecaption>Close up image of naturalized yard with tree, paved area.</figurecaption></figure></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mechanical projects such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, communication, and safety systems form the core of Limestone's Facility Services work. Recent upgrades at Lancaster Drive, Sydenham, and Lord Strathcona Public Schools have significantly improved school climates and conditions.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Assistant Manager Downie also highlighted several major site improvement projects underway across Limestone. In preparation for a major traffic flow and roadway upgrade at Ernestown SS and Odessa P.S., Phase One was completed this summer. This phase involved moving the existing Kindergarten yard to the east side of the school, combining it with the primary junior yard, and adding naturalized play elements such as step slides, an outdoor classroom, and basketball areas. The naturalization of playgrounds includes grass play areas and some asphalted areas to ensure safe play spaces for all students, even with heavy student traffic.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Odessa P.S. Naturalized Yards</span></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Naturalized step slides at Odessa P.S.</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 466px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><figure><img src="/images/10fb10e3-9c0c-46ef-8581-0005dfaa1c5f?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" alt="Aerial photo of Odessa Kindergarten Yarad" width="100%" height="inherit" style="float:left;width:100%;height:inherit"><figurecaption>Aerial photo of Odessa P.S. naturalized play yard.</figurecaption></figure></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><figure><img src="/images/2941fba5-df74-491d-a316-a5226953cea1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" alt="Image of Odessa PS naturalized climber steps and slide" width="348.7554016113281" height="259.90694649925285" style="width:348.7554016113281px;height:259.90694649925285px"><figurecaption>Image of naturalized step slides at Odessa P.S.</figurecaption></figure></p></th></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Other significant projects mentioned were millwork replacements, single-use washroom upgrades, courtyard drainage and accessibility improvements, elementary sports track at Southview P.S. and new playgrounds at J.G. Simcoe P.S. and Fairfield Elementary School, which are set to be completed in October. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In conclusion, Manager Fowler and Assistant Manager Downie emphasized that the overview presented was just a sample of the many projects completed or initiated this summer that would be of interest to Trustees. They thanked the Facility Services staff for their hard work during what was a very busy summer, expressing pride and satisfaction in the work done on behalf of students and schools.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Private Session Report</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice Chair Bob Godkin provided the Private Session Report for September 18, 2024. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During private session at the EPOC, Special Meeting of the Board of September 4th, 2024:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">•</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Trustee McGregor and Superintendent McWilliams gave a OPSBA labour update</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">•</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director Burra gave a property update and a personnel update</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">And earlier this evening during Private Session: </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">•</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The private session minutes were approved from the Regular Board Meeting of August 21, 2024 and the Private Session of the September 4, 2024 EPOC Special Meeting of the Board.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">•</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director Burra gave a property and personnel update.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Motion was carried.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Trustees' Report</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Trustee Kolosov provided the following report:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first Interschool council meeting of the year was held on September 10th with Trustee Ayesha Bukhari and Trustee Siya Kumar as the meeting chairs. The beginning of this meeting consisted of introductions of all attendees such as us, student trustees, staff advisors: Chris Morrow, Michael Payne and Jessi DiRocco, and the student representatives of schools across the board. </span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"We discussed our goals as the Interschool council for the year including events that the students would like to see more effective methods of student engagement." Student Trustee Kolosov</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This includes more school-wide spirit days, ‘Pep Rallies’ for spirit for school sports teams, which celebrate sports teams with assemblies with friendly competitions for the teams to participate in, and social media promotion for sports teams and school initiatives. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The topic of Menstrual equity was brought to the table, and we plan to revisit the topic and have each student report back next month on the status of available menstrual products at their schools. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As part of our Professional Development for the meeting, we had a visit from Ms. Douglas and during her time with us, she shared some insight on how to promote events and the effective use of social media. This was beneficial, as it relates to encouraging and promoting student engagement and participation for each student school council. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regarding full representation of the secondary schools in this board, we are missing Student representatives from Granite Ridge Secondary School. It is important for these student council meetings to include as many schools as possible to have their needs and thoughts present in discussions without exclusion. In the next few weeks, I plan to reach out to GREC and pay an in-person visit at their school to meet the council there to extend an invite directly to the Interschool council meeting. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We ended the meeting by sharing a few reflection questions such as: "What is something that you would consider trying at your school?” and “Have any of these worked/not worked for your school?”, that the student representatives shared with one another and can build off of at our next meeting in October. </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reports for Information</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Virtual School Update</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Associate Superintendent provided an update on Virtual School, and goals for the 2024/2025 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board continues to offer virtual school as a choice for students and families. In doing so, we are focusing on all of the Strategic Plan Goals, which are:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1) Improving student well-being/sense of belonging, participation/engagement in class time and time focused on learning</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2) Improving literacy learning and achievement for every student</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3) Improving math learning and achievement for every student</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">4) Improving graduation rates and preparedness for future success for all groups of students</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">5) Improving responsiveness and service to families, staff, and community partners </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB has an elementary virtual school partnership for the 2024-2025 school year with Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB). In spring 2024, LDSB adjusted the delivery of secondary virtual school moving forward. The supervision of secondary virtual students would no longer come from Katarokwi Learning Centre. Instead, existing virtual school students would be transferred to their secondary home school to receive course registration and ongoing learning support from that school’s support team. In addition, the Grade 9 and 10 timetables were adjusted so that students would receive three asynchronous courses and one synchronous course per semester. Grades 11 and 12 would remain unchanged.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As was shared in the last virtual school report, students enrolled in the School to Community (SCS) program would continue to receive the same scheduling and support for the 2024/2025 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As of September 11, 2024, a total of 86 students are enrolled in elementary virtual school: 47 LDSB students and 39 KPRDSB students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The staff is comprised of 2.37 KPRDSB educators and 2.6 LDSB educators. The elementary virtual school is supervised by the Principal and Vice Principal of the Katarokwi Learning Centre and Alternative and Continuing Education. While LDSB provides the daily supervision of virtual school, staffing, student supports, and financial costs continue to be shared in a manner proportional to student enrolment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone continues to work with other public school boards in the region if students/families are interested in pursuing virtual learning options.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a result of this data that was gathered last year, the school team is focusing on the following commitments:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Staff participate in short math cycles to improve math pedagogy</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Staff professional learning is including a focus on equitable assessment, Visible Learning strategies, Gamification and EQAO, </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Universal Design for Learning (UDL), a book club on The Art and Science of Teaching Reading and understanding how to lead mentally health schools</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Leading Literacy and Numeracy nights to help families with at-home learning</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Implementing Knowledgehook (an online Math program) with students and offering family information sessions</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Continuing to use universal screeners and diagnostic data to identify literacy learning gaps</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Implementing a targeted approach to address students with higher academic needs. This support is accomplished through SST meetings, small group instruction with classroom teachers and peer tutoring opportunities</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Building a positive attendance plan by building relationships with students and families</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Reinforcing the importance of daily attendance through regular communication</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The report was received for information purposes.</span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student & Staff Attendance</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Superintendents S. Gilliam and S. McWilliams provided Trustees with an update on the current Attendance Matters Campaign for LDSB students and staff.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This initiative supports the following Strategic Plan Goals:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Improve student well-being/sense of belonging, participation/engagement in class time, and time focused on learning</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Improve literacy and math learning and achievement for every student</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-indent: 20px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Improve responsiveness and service to families, staff, and community partners</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Bill 98, or the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, was passed in the spring of 2023. One of the key priorities identified in this Act was school attendance, especially for students in Grades 1-8. LDSB schools are expected to promote, monitor, and work with families to improve attendance rates for all students, K-12, even though current reporting on the goal is targeted at Grades 1-8. Research has shown that regular school attendance is critical in supporting academic achievement and well-being, as well as social and emotional development, the establishment of routines, and being better prepared for the future, regardless of one's pathway.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">There are several reasons staff may be absent, including, but not limited to, sick leave, medical/dental appointments, personal leave, bereavement, professional development and student activities. It is widely acknowledged that staff absences have a significant impact on student -achievement and well-being and therefore a focus on staff absences to raise awareness of the impact on students and staff is a goal for the 2024-2025 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A student Attendance Matters campaign has been launched across Limestone, using social media, posters, and the Director’s update. Regular social media posts will continue throughout the year, with support from community partners, including Public Health. Schools will support the campaign through their regular communication channels and by placing posters throughout their school.</span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">General Social Media Post</span></p></th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten Social Media Post</span></p></th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/09b9b514-7c41-406b-89ad-447f814b9a4d?fingerprint=ppb20251217013102" alt="Image of social media graphic for Attendance Matters General" width="299.7662048339844" height="299.7662048339844" style="width:299.7662048339844px;height:299.7662048339844px"></p></th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/d2766d27-1535-44f6-a576-f3e79e92f539?fingerprint=ppb20251217014934" alt="Image of social media graphic for Attendance Matters Kindergarten" width="307.7518310546875" height="307.7518310546875" style="width:307.7518310546875px;height:307.7518310546875px"></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A staff Attendance Matters campaign will launch by the middle of October to bring awareness to the number and impact of staff absences, on staff and student achievement and well-being, with a particular focus on educators. This campaign will align with the student Attendance Matters campaign.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This report was received for information purposes.</span></p><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr"><a href="https://youtu.be/5s-TYjGatQY?si=xZHOGoHboMi3pH9Z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Meeting Recording</span></a></h4><h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Next Board Meeting</span></h4><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">EPOC October 2, 2024</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular Board Meeting October 23, 2024</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. Board Meeting Agendas can be found on the website under </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Meetings</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p>
2024-09-20 15:21:15.781 +0000 UTC
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Indigenous Family Night October 9 CANCELLED
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">CANCELLED: Unfortunately, we have had to cancel the Indigenous Family Night scheduled for October 9, 2024. We will be sharing an update on future opportunities shortly. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">All self-identified Indigenous students and their families are welcome to join us in celebrating fall and the harvest on Wednesday, October 9, from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 Hwy. 15, Kingston). </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cultural activities for all ages, baking, arts and crafts.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We invite you to connect with other Indigenous families, find out what is happening in the community and in schools in Limestone, and share a meal with friends and family.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">RSVP by emailing Pat Vanderholst at </span><a href="mailto:vanderholstp@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">vanderholstp@limestone.on.ca</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Transportation is available.</span></p>
2024-09-18 20:21:04.871 +0000 UTC
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PSW Living Classroom supports workforce development
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Celebrations were underway at the John M Parrott Centre this week, on the opening of the Personal Support Worker (PSW) Living Classroom training model, on site at the Home. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The PSW Living Classroom is a partnership between Limestone Community Education and Lennox and Addington County that integrates education into the John M Parrott Centre to support workforce development in senior living. Students, faculty, and those living, visiting and working in the home engage in a culture of shared learning. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The program is approximately 660 hours and a combination of theory, lab and clinical skills and placement experiences in community and long term care. Graduates have a 98% employment rate. The program intakes adult learners in September and February annually. Information sessions will begin in October for the next cohort set to begin in February 2025.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Funding is provided by the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (“RIA”) as part of the Ministry of Long-Term Care’s Living Classroom Project.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For more information on the PSW program visit </span><a href="https://communityed.limestone.on.ca/personal_support_worker___p_s_w_" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone Community Education website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>
2024-09-13 18:53:45.514 +0000 UTC
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Expression of Remembrance and Honouring Residential School Survivors
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board has a commitment to both teaching and learning the truth, and taking strides towards meaningful action that reflects reconciliation and right relations with the Indigenous communities in Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For the month of September, the LDSB education centre (board office) will fly the </span><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnctr.ca%2Fexhibits%2Fsurvivors-flag%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cdouglasja%40limestone.on.ca%7Ce45ab465e6904118d44408dcd1d125ce%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638615943422755969%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=KLcmWysLuHFJldX%2B%2Farah23hj7XS%2BgA2SIcQFEf2dSo%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" title="Original URL: https://nctr.ca/exhibits/survivors-flag/. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Survivors’ Flag</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> as an expression of remembrance and to honour residential school Survivors and all the lives and communities who continue to be impacted by the Residential School System in what is now known as Canada. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">September 30</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a day to intentionally continue learning about the Residential School System and the truthful history of relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. This is a day to mourn the lives of the children who never came home and honour the Survivors, as well as their families and communities. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This day is part of a larger conversation of colonization and systemic inequities, and the recognition of Indigenous resiliency and resistance to colonial tactics should be included as part of this learning.</span></p>
2024-09-10 20:29:16.712 +0000 UTC
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Recordings of Board Meetings
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At Limestone District School Board, we are committed to creating opportunities for our school community to connect and engage in important conversations about education. Meetings are open to the public and may be attended in-person at the LDSB Education Centre at 220 Portsmouth Avenue, Kingston. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For those who prefer to stay connected from home, we live stream our regular monthly Board and committee meetings. This way, parents, caregivers, community members, and staff can easily follow along with trustee discussions online. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Starting this September, video recordings of our Regular Board Meetings, Education, Policy, and Operations Committee, and Parent Involvement Committee will be posted to our </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@LimestoneDSB/playlists" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">YouTube channel</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. These videos will be available for viewing after the meetings. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please keep in mind that the captions in our videos are generated using Automatic Speech Recognition, so they might not always be perfectly accurate. While these recordings serve as a resource, they should not be considered an official record of any proceeding. Minutes will continue to be the official record for all meetings. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As social media continues to evolve, we will continue to monitor these platforms to ensure we are using the best tools to communicate with you. </span></p>
2024-09-10 20:06:12.941 +0000 UTC
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Message from the Director – September 2024
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome back to a new school year! It is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all new and returning elementary and secondary students, and their families. We hope you had a restful and enjoyable summer break, filled with quality time with friends and family.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I invite you to watch the </span><a href="https://youtu.be/UePhbvYerAQ" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> video.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we embark on a new academic year, our team is filled with enthusiasm and optimism for the opportunities that lie ahead. Our dedicated team of educators and staff have been working diligently to prepare for your return, ensuring that our schools are safe, inclusive, and conducive to learning. We are committed to providing a supportive environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, allowing everyone to see themselves in Limestone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I have a couple of reminders for students and families as we begin this school year:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Attendance – Every School Day Counts</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Regular school attendance is crucial for a student’s academic success and overall development, as it is directly related to academic success, personal growth, and future opportunities. It helps build a strong foundation of knowledge and encourages a sense of responsibility. Additionally, consistent attendance allows teachers to better support each student’s individual needs, leading to improved academic performance and a more cohesive classroom environment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage all families to make school attendance a priority for their students by:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Talking with your student(s) about the importance of daily attendance in a positive way and how it supports learning.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Only let your child stay home if they are sick.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Make every effort to schedule doctors, dentist, and other appointments after school hours. If your child must be out of school for an appointment, bring the child back to school for at least part of the school day.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Together, let us make school attendance a priority, and make every school day count.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PPM 128 – Cell Phone Usage and Vaping on School Property</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy/Program 128: The Provincial Code of Conduct and School Boards Code of Conduct</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> regarding the restricting/limiting cellphones and vapes in schools is now in effect. The revised Code of Conduct outlines that members of the school community will:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">treat each other with kindness and respect,</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">support learning and keep distractions out of class, and</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">help others when they are in need.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It also outlines that members of the school community will not:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">bully, cyberbully, or encourage others to do so,</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">harm others, including harm with the motivation of hate or discrimination,</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">use a personal mobile device during class unless permitted by an educator, and</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">use, share, or sell vape, nicotine, and/or tobacco products on school property. </span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Provincial Code of Conduct requires boards to restrict access to all social media platforms and apps on school networks and school devices. In addition, personal devices, including cell phones, can only be used by students during class time for educational purposes, directed by an educator. Unless approved by the educator(s) in the classroom, cell phones are not to be visible or used beyond exceptional circumstances. It should be noted that expectations are slightly different for students in </span><a href="about:blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kindergarten</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">-Grade 6 vs. students in Grades 7-12.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/kfl-a-public-health-and-limestone-district-school-board-supporting-the-implementation-of-ppm-128-20240904190018" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KFL&A Public Health and Limestone District School Board are working together to support the implementation of PPM 128</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and the necessary educational supports for students, families, and staff. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/new-requirements-regarding-cell-phones-and-vaping-20240822182044" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Additional information is on Limestone’s website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and further details will be shared with students and families from schools this fall as it becomes available.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Engagement</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We encourage families to stay engaged and involved in their student’s education. Your partnership is invaluable, and together, we can create a nurturing community that supports the growth and development of students. Families and students can find lots of resources to support learning and family engagement on the </span><a href="http://www.limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone website.</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/your-childs-education-parent-guide-our-school-system" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ministry has also provided a Family Guide</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> filled with information to help you support your student’s success and make informed decisions about their education.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we begin this school year together, let us embrace the challenges and celebrate the successes that come our way. We look forward to a year filled with learning, growth, and wonderful achievements.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome back, and best wishes for a fantastic school year!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Director of Education</span></p>
2024-09-04 20:00:17.239 +0000 UTC
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KFL&A Public Health and Limestone District School Board - Supporting the Implementation of PPM 128
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KFL&A Public Health and Limestone District School Board are working together to support the implementation of PPM 128 and the necessary educational supports for students, families, and staff. Please review the joint letter below: </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sept. 4, 2024</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear parents/guardians:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Starting in September, new rules about vaping and cell phones will be in place for all elementary and secondary schools. Here’s what you need to know:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Anti-vaping policy</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What it is: Students possessing, using, or providing a vape will have the device taken away and disposed of, with notification to parents/guardians. Repeat offences will result in progressive discipline according to school board policy, and the involvement of Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington Public Health (KFLAPH), as per the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, including the possibly of charges/fine.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Why this is important: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Approximately 12 percent of students in Grades 7 to 12 report vaping in the past year (LDSB School Climate Survey 2023-2024, May 2024). Vapes often contain nicotine, which has been proven to be addictive and harmful to lungs and young brains. The use of nicotine can impair memory and concentration, which are essential for academic success. It can also increase feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression, negatively impacting overall well-being.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How you can help: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Talk to your child about the risks of vaping. Consider using apps like “Quash” that can help them quit if they already vape. Be a role model, do not vape or smoke in areas where smoking/vaping is banned, including school grounds, community recreational facilities, playgrounds, and hospital properties.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How we will help</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Ontario curriculum includes teaching students about the risks of vaping. We can also provide resources for those who want to quit or reduce their use. Visit notanexperiment.ca or quashapp.com for information on vaping and quitting.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Cell phone policy</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What it is:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Students in Kindergarten to Grade 6 are not permitted personal mobile devices – which includes any electronic device that can be used to communicate or to access the internet – during the school day except in specified circumstances. Students in Grades 7 to 12 can have these devices during the school day but must have them powered down/silenced and put away during class time. Social media sites will be blocked on school devices and networks. Students in Grades 7-12 may only use their personal devices in the classroom if the teacher has permitted their use for learning purposes.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Why this is important: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Having personal mobile devices like cell phones present and receiving notifications during class creates distractions which can reduce student concentration, academic performance, and working memory. Excessive screen time can also negatively impact physical health and behaviour.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines recommend no more than two hours of recreational screen time per day for school-aged children, yet 78 percent of Ontario students in Grades 7 to 12 exceed three hours (Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey, 2023). Additionally, some studies link social media use to anxiety and depression; The US Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health states that over three hours of daily social media use doubles the risk of poor mental health. More than half of LDSB students in Grades 4 to 12 report spending this amount of time or more on social media each day (LDSB School Climate Survey, 2024).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How you can help</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: Talk about the new cell phone expectations with your child and the benefits of less screen time. Visit mediasmarts.ca for tips on how to help your child manage their device use. If you urgently need to contact your child, call the school. For non-emergencies, wait until break times or the end of the school day to contact them.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How we will help</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">: We will ensure students understand these new rules and support them in reducing screen time.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please talk to your child/children about these changes so they are prepared for the new school year. With your help, we can ensure students can focus on their learning and thrive in a healthy school setting.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For more information, read the updated Provincial Code of Conduct, visit kflaph.ca, or contact your school.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sincerely,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dr. Piotr Oglaza</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, Medical Officer of Health Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington Public Health</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Krishna Burra</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, Director of Education Limestone District School Board</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="/documents/48aceb84-8299-4109-a6f4-3498af234499/Joint%20letter%20KFLA_LDSB.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013700" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A PDF version of this letter is available online. </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p>
2024-09-04 19:02:24.989 +0000 UTC
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New Requirements Regarding Cell Phones and Vaping
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To promote healthy and welcoming school environments, the LDSB, along with all Ontario school boards, is currently revising its Code of Conduct to reflect new guidelines from the Ministry of Education about cell phone/mobile device use and vaping in schools as per </span><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/school-rules-provincial-code-conduct" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PPM128: The Provincial Code of Conduct.</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The regulations, as outlined in LDSB's Code of Conduct, Administrative Procedure 350 and Administrative Procedure 146, are crucial for fostering a safe and healthy learning environment and for mitigating the risks associated with substance abuse among students, and restricting the use of cell phones at school. Additionally, school boards are required to limit access to some social media platforms (e.g. Snapchat, Tiktok, Facebook, WhatsApp, etc.) on school networks and devices, allowing use only for educational purposes as directed by educators.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PPM 128 addresses the critical need for school boards to enforce restrictions on the personal use of mobile devices within schools. This includes ensuring that policies are in place to regulate when and how mobile devices may be used by students, to minimize distractions, protect privacy, and promote an environment conducive to learning. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As directed by the </span><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ministry of Education in Policy/Program Memorandum 128</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> the updated Provincial Code of Conduct includes the requirement for all students to follow strict anti-vaping and cell phone/personal mobile device use guidelines, starting in September 2024. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In response to the PPM 128, the following </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/policies-procedures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB procedures</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> will be reviewed and updated as required during Fall 2024: </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Procedure 146: Digital Citizenship </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Procedure 164: Smoke-Free/Vape-Free Environments </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Procedure 350: Codes of Conduct </span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Procedure 351: The Use of Electronic Communication, Social Media, and Mobile Devices by Students </span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB staff is working with Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington Public Health to create vaping education and prevention resources. More information will be available for parents/caregivers and students in the 2024-2025 school year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mobile devices in schools - what does this mean for students? </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students must not use cell phones and other personal mobile devices during instructional time except under the following conditions: </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For educational purposes, as directed by an educator </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For health and medical reasons </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To support special education needs </span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When can students use a mobile device:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> If a student is in Grade 6 and below, they can bring a mobile device to school but will only be able to use it before and after school. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If a student is in Grades 7-12, they must keep their personal mobile devices stored out of sight and either powered off or set to silent mode during instructional time, except when an educator grants explicit permission for use under the specified circumstances. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What parents/caregivers can do: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> You can teach your student about finding a healthy balance in using technology by limiting screen time at home. You can also: </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Read </span><a href="https://mediasmarts.ca/four-tips-managing-your-kids%E2%80%99-screen-time" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Media Smarts’ tips for managing your kids’ screen time</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Explore </span><a href="https://www.camh.ca/en/your-care/programs-and-services/problem-gambling--technology-use-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Centre for Addiction and Mental Health’s (CAMH’s) </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">services and resources if you have concerns about your child’s use of technology </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Explore</span><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Info-sheet-helping-your-child-manage-digital-technology.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> School Mental Health Ontario </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">resources to help you manage your child’s screen time </span></li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vaping and smoking - what does this mean for students? </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 prohibits smoking (tobacco and cannabis) and the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) at schools, on school grounds and all public areas within 20 metres of these grounds. Anyone smoking or vaping on school property is guilty of an offence and if convicted may result in a fine under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB Administrative Procedures 164, 146, and 350 outline the procedures for maintaining a smoke-free and vape-free environment. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">What parents/caregivers can do: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your student vapes, help is available to quit. The </span><a href="https://www.quashapp.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Quash App</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a great place to start. If your student does not vape, now is the time to </span><a href="https://www.quashapp.com/conversations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">have conversations</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> about why they should not start. </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://www.drugfreekidscanada.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Substances-at-a-Glance-Vaping.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Drug Free Kids Canada has a fact sheet</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> with ideas about how to talk to your child about vaping, as well as general information about vaping. </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Resources are available through </span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/health-topics/vaping.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington Public Health</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></li></ul>
2024-09-04 18:00:10 +0000 UTC
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Reminder: First Day of School is Wednesday, September 4, 2024
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A reminder to all students and families that the first day of school for the 2024-2025 school year is </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wednesday, September 4, 2024.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Tuesday, September 3 is a Professional Activity (P.A.) Day for Limestone staff, and there are no classes for students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are looking forward to welcoming new and returning students to Limestone classrooms on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We know families are busy preparing for the first day of school as well. Here is a suggested list of what Kindergarten students need to prepare to bring on their first day of school: </span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A full-sized backpack/knapsack to carry everything they will need to pack up everyday. </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">An insulated lunch bag, and a water bottle with spout. </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A peanut free/nut free lunch and snacks. </span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Indoor and outdoor shoes they can put on and off themselves (e.g., Velcro or slip on) </span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Comfortable clothes and a complete change of clothes in a Ziploc bag, just in case. </span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Everything labelled with your student’s name. </span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools will supply all school supplies such as pens, pencils, markers, crayons, erasers, glue sticks, etc. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>
2024-08-27 14:00:30 +0000 UTC
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Kindergarten Registration
Discover Kindergarten in Limestone and register your student for the 2026-2027 school year today!